Do I need to change my diet ?

Do I need to change my diet?
There has been extensive research into diet as a possible cause or trigger of UC, but so far
there are not any clear answers. Researchers suggest that certain foods may alter the balance
of bacteria that live in the colon in huge numbers. If so, it may be that eating foods and

supplements that encourage the growth of ‘good’ bacteria could improve UC, but further research is needed. The most important thing is to eat a nutritious and balanced diet to maintain
your weight and strength, and to take sufficient fluids to stop you getting dehydrated (see our
information sheet: Dehydration). You may, however, find that certain foods affect your symptoms.
For example, when you have a flare up, you may find that bland, soft foods cause less discomfort
than raw vegetables, spicy or high-fibre foods. Some people find that their condition improves
if they cut out milk products from their diet. This may be due to some people with UC being
sensitive to milk protein rather than the effects of milk on inflammation in the gut. If you have IBS
symptoms, it may help to avoid high fibre foods, particularly cereals high in bran. (See the
National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence Guidelines for Irritable Bowel Syndrome at:
www.nice.org.uk and The Gut Trust listed under Other Useful Organisations at the end.)
You may sometimes need nutritional supplements to replace the loss of vitamins and minerals.
This can happen when you have a poor appetite, do not eat enough or when you have
ongoing diarrhoea. Before taking any supplements or making any changes to your diet, always
check with your doctor or a qualified dietitian.
For more information about diet see our booklet: Food and IBD.

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